The Press Launch details. Full review coming soon. Watch this space.
With the new BMW R 1300 RT, we’ve taken the touring icon
from BMW Motorrrad to a whole new level. It is lighter in design,
more accessible and more dynamic than ever before. In addition,
with a completely new engine, chassis and aerodynamics, it offers
a riding experience that meets the highest demands in this
segment in terms of dynamics, comfort and travel capability".
Harald Spagl, Project Manager BMW R 1300 RT
The new BMW R 1300 RT: Wider range from comfortable tourer
to dynamic country road motorcycle. Dynamic design language
with optimised wind and weather protection.
The new BMW R 1300 RT follows in the footsteps of its highly
successful predecessor. It continues to build on the proven qualities
of the BMW RT, such as touring capability and riding comfort -
alone, as a pair or with plenty of luggage.
At the same time, the new R 1300 RT has broadened its usage
profile by making its dynamic systems even more prominent.
Sporty optional equipment such as the sport brake, the enhanced
Shift Assistant Pro and the newly developed DCA electronic
suspension allow an even more active and dynamic riding style. The
range of optional extras is complemented by the Automated Shift
Assistant ASA, which can be ridden in a sporty and dynamic manual
mode, but also allows comfortable riding in automatic mode. All
this, combined with a more dynamic and visually lighter design,
promises to continue the success story of the BMW RT.
The wind and weather protection concept of the new R 1300 RT
includes adjustable side trim that is homogeneously integrated into
the design. This makes it possible to provide the rider with an
adequate supply of fresh air at all times, even in challenging
conditions such as city traffic or high outside temperatures on
country roads, and to offer highly effective protection from the
wind and weather at low temperatures when riding on the highway
or motorway.
In addition to the basic version in Alpine White 3 uni colour, the
new BMW R 1300 RT is available in the Triple Black model variant
in Blackstorm metallic, the emphatically dynamic Impulse model
variant in Racing Blue metallic and the particularly elegant model
variant Option 719 Camargue in Blue Ridge Mountain metallic.
Perfect ergonomics and equipment for comfortable and dynamic
travelling and touring.
The BMW R 1300 RT's design, engine and chassis are not the only
aspects of the BMW touring icon that reflect the BMW Motorrad
development team's ambition to expand the range of possible uses
of the new BMW R 1300 RT and make it even more dynamic.
Equal importance was also placed on ergonomics, with a focus on
creating a more active riding position.
Accordingly, the ergonomic triangle formed by handlebars,
footrests and seat on the new R 1300 RT have been designed to
position the rider noticeably further forward. This results in
improved feedback from the front section and therefore even
greater controllability during dynamic riding. At the same time, the
more active seating position still allows for relaxed touring and
cruising, even with a passenger. The height and angle of the rider's
seat can be adjusted to fine-tune the riding position. Passenger
comfort has also been significantly improved. The new cases now
offer more space for the passenger’s lower legs without
compromising the volume of the cases. The passenger seat has
also been lengthened. There is now more space to change your
seating position from time to time on longer trips.
A choice of different seat heights for optimum riding comfort and
a new luggage system with electric cases and topcase.
Additional variable-volume case system for optimum
customisation.
As usual, BMW Motorrad's engineers have paid particular attention
to easy access and a low seat height. For this reason, the
development of the new R 1300 RT placed particular focus on
achieving a seat height of only 780 mm. The inner leg curve is also
significantly smaller than on the previous model. In addition to the
standard seat, other seats are available as individual items of
optional equipment ex works.
The new BMW R 1300 RT is equipped as standard with cases (27
litres each) for touring and holiday trips. Further highlights of the
new R 1300 RT are the Vario cases, available ex works for the first
time as an optional equipment for a BMW RT. The variable luggage
system allows the volume to be adjusted from 27 to 33 litres to
suit the width of the motorcycle. Both cases are electrified and can
be unlocked using the central locking system. They also both
feature interior lighting, and the left-hand case includes a USB-C
charging port. The two topcases with a capacity of 39 and 54 litres
respectively offer additional storage space. The large 54-litre
luggage compartment is also electric. A special feature is the
heated backrest for the passenger.
Rugged boxer engine with top figures for power output and
torque along with optimised running smoothness and efficiency.
The boxer engine in the new BMW R 1300 RT has a capacity of
exactly 1,300 cc while the ratio between bore and stroke is 106.5
to 73 mm (predecessor: 102.5 to 76 mm). This increase in capacity
derives from an enlarged cylinder bore and a new crankshaft with
reduced stroke. It has an output of 107 kW (145 hp) (predecessor:
100 kW (136 hp), still at 7,750 rpm, and develops a maximum
torque of 149 Nm at 6 ,00 rpm (predecessor: 143 Nm at 6,250
rpm), making it by far the most powerful serial production BMW
boxer engine to date. Its maximum engine speed is 9,000 rpm.
Three riding modes are included as standard, allowing the bike to
adapt ideally to any road conditions. Riding Modes Pro with the
additional modes “Dynamic” and “Dynamic Pro”, along with riding
mode pre-selection as optional equipment ex works. Engine drag
torque control (MSR) as standard.
In standard trim, the new R 1300 RT has three riding modes for
adaptation to individual rider preferences. The “Rain” and “Road”
riding modes allow riding characteristics to be adapted to most
road conditions. The “Eco” riding mode also makes it possible to
use the innovative BMW ShiftCam technology primarily in such a
way that the maximum range can be achieved with a single tank of
fuel. On request the new R 1300 RT can also be fitted with the
optional equipment item “Riding Modes Pro” ex works: among
other things, this comprises the additional riding modes “Dynamic”
and “Dynamic Pro”. With the riding mode pre-selection the rider can
use the riding mode button to make an individual selection. In this
way, a preferred and easily manageable number of riding modes
can be configured and selected while riding.
Engine drag torque control (MSR) is on board even in standard trim.
This can be used to safely avoid unstable riding conditions that can
occur during coasting or downshifting due to excessive brake slip
at the rear wheel. In these cases, the engine drag control instantly
opens the throttle valves to such an extent that drag torque is
equalised and the motorcycle stabilises.
Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) with fully automated clutch
operation and manual or automated shifting for an enhanced
motorcycling experience as optional equipment.
With the Automated Shift Assistant (ASA), BMW Motorrad offers an
innovative technical solution to make motorcycling easier and more
comfortable. True to the motto “Simplify your Ride”, automated
clutch operation and gear changes puts the riding experience even
more front and centre - without sacrificing the dynamics of the
shifting process.
Completely newly developed chassis with sheet metal main
frame made of steel and aluminium rear frame.
The chassis of the new BMW R 1300 RT has been completely
redesigned. The centrepiece is the new sheet metal main frame
made of steel, which in addition to a significant optimisation of the
installation space for even more compact packaging also offers
higher levels of stiffness than the predecessor model. In the course
of the redesign, the rear frame was also completely reconceived. In
place of the previous tubular steel construction, the new
R 1300 RT now has an aluminium lattice tube rear frame.
In combination with a drive unit that is now much more compact,
the new design of the chassis achieved a significant concentration
of mass towards the overall centre of gravity, which is reflected in
noticeable handling benefits. At the same time, the new R 1300 RT
is even more precise and stable when braking, requires noticeably
less effort to ride, and offers an even more satisfyingly precise
response of the suspension elements.
The best of both worlds: EVO Telelever front wheel guide with
flex element and new EVO Paralever rear wheel guide for even
greater steering precision and ride stability. New wheels more
than 1.4 kg lighter.
The front wheel guide in the new R 1300 RT follows the Telelever
principle introduced by BMW Motorrad 30 years ago - but in an
innovative, newly designed form that combines the best of both
worlds.
With the Evo Telelever, BMW Motorrad now combines the
strengths of the two previously used Telelever variants in the new
BMW R 1300 RT. Clamped tightly to the fork tubes - as previously
in the sporty design - the upper fork construction (as in the GS)
incorporates a handlebar decoupling system that prevents any
detrimental tilting movement and only transmits steering forces.
The rear wheel guide of the new R 1300 RT has also been
redesigned. The hallmark of the Evo Paralever is a significantly
stiffer connection via the suspension in the frame and a continuous
swinging arm quick-release axle.
The new R 1300 RT features new 17-inch aluminium cast wheels
with hollow-spoke design. All in all they weigh in at more than
1.4 kg less than the existing wheels.
New electronic suspension Dynamic Chassis Adaption (DCA) for
two rider-selectable riding positions for maximum spread
between ride comfort and dynamic handling as well as with
dynamic adjustment of damping, spring rate and load
equalisation as optional equipment ex works.
Even the standard Dynamic ESA electronic chassis offers a high
level of riding safety and riding enjoyment on a wide variety of road
surfaces thanks to dynamic adjustment of the damping and load-
dependent adjustment of the rear spring preload.
The electronic Dynamic Chassis Adaption (DCA) now goes one
step further and, in addition to the familiar Dynamic Suspension
Adjustment (DSA) options - such as dynamic adjustment of
damping, spring rate and load equalisation - offers two rider-
selectable riding positions via the riding modes for maximum
spread between ride comfort and dynamic handling. This makes
for an even more thrilling riding experience in all conditions.
DCA has been developed with equal emphasis on dynamic
performance and comfort. The new semi-active chassis offers two
different riding positions. One riding position has a flat steering
head angle and therefore a chassis geometry designed to maximise
riding stability and smoothness. The second riding position features
firmer damping tuning, a higher spring rate and a higher ride
height. Raising the rear end more than the front results in a steeper
steering head angle and reduced castor, making the motorcycle
easier to steer and handle. DCA makes these two different chassis
geometries possible and combines them with the riding modes.
A high-performance braking system in conjunction with Integral
ABS Pro comes as standard. Sport brake as optional equipment
ex works.
The R 1300 RT comes as standard with a twin disc brake featuring
two radially mounted four-piston fixed callipers at the front and a
single disc brake with two-piston floating calliper at the rear in
conjunction with BMW Motorrad Integral ABS Pro. The new
BMW R 1300 RT can be fitted with the sport brake system as
optional equipment ex works. In addition to a sportier look with
titanium-coloured brake callipers, it offers a slight increase in
braking performance.
New full LED headlights and state-of-the-art LED light units
feature all round. Headlight Pro with adaptive headlight and pitch
compensation as well as adaptive light modes with intelligent
adjustment of the alignment and intensity of the low beam to
different riding situations are available as optional equipment ex
works.
For decades now, BMW Motorrad has been regarded as a
frontrunner when it comes to safety in connection with
motorcycling. Accordingly, the new R 1300 RT comes with state-
of-the-art LED light units all around as standard. The new full LED
headlamp which illuminates the road with unrivalled brightness and
clarity, underlines the prestige of the new R 1300 RT. The light unit
consists of an LED module with multiple LEDs for low beam and
high beam. The daytime running light or position light icon
(depending on the market), which is positioned to the left and right
of the headlamp, provides a distinctive look.
Headlight Pro goes one step further available as optional
equipment ex works. In addition to the adaptive headlight, the
headlamp of the new R 1300 RT also features pitch compensation
- for example when accelerating and decelerating as well as for
levelling the riding position in DCA. Headlight Pro features a
servomotor that automatically and actively adjusts the position of
the cut-off line to keep the vertical inclination within the optimum
range when the load or load status changes.
Headlight Pro can be further enhanced with the optional “Adaptive
Light Modes” (depending on market), which offer lighting
technology that intelligently adapts the direction and intensity of
the low beam to different riding situations. The Adaptive Lighting
Modes provide optimum lighting conditions for night-time riding
with speed-dependent road illumination. Lighting is provided in
several stages: for low, medium and high speeds. Intelligent
adaptation to speed and riding conditions increases safety and
helps to guide the rider.
Riding Assistant with Active Cruise Control (ACC), Front Collision
Warning (FCW), Lane Change Warning (SWW) and Rear End
Collision Warning (RECW) for convenient and safe motorcycling
as optional equipment ex works.
The new R 1300 RT is already equipped with Dynamic Cruise
Control (DCC) with braking function as standard. The Riding
Assistant offers many more functions as an optional extra ex works.
It consists of Active Cruise Control (ACC), Front Collision Warning
(FCW), Lane Change Warning (SWW) and Rear End Collision
Warning (RECW).
10.25-inch TFT colour display with map navigation, a wide range
of functions and new Connectivity Hub for controlling
accessories as well as actively ventilated smartphone charging
compartment with USB-C charging port as standard.
The R 1300 RT comes fitted as standard with a 10.25-inch TFT
colour screen with integrated map navigation and newly developed
Connectivity Hub. With maximum connectivity, excellent readability,
clear menu navigation and a highly integrated operating concept,
the new R 1300 RT maintains its leading position among
production motorcycles.
The “tiles” shown can be used to select the “My Motorcycle”,
“Radio”, “Navigation”, “Media”, “Phone” and “Settings” menus. A
new feature is the Connectivity Hub "tile" for connecting current
and future accessories such as smart glasses, heated vests and
lightweight jackets. This simplifies the operation of the accessories.
The new R 1300 RT comes as standard with an actively ventilated
smartphone charging compartment located within the rider's reach.
It is even easier to open than its predecessor and can
accommodate much larger smartphones. The smartphone battery
is charged via a USB-C interface. The lid also has a clip that can be
used for a debit card or banknotes.
Audio System and Audio Pro available as optional extras ex-
works for outstanding sound.
With the Audio System, the new R 1300 RT offers an even more
intense sound experience. It features a high level of integration with
the vehicle's electrical system. The menu control, setting options
and unique display concept make the audio experience perfect in
terms of interaction as well. In addition to the loudspeakers, a
connected communication system can also be used for playback.
Audio Pro offers an even more impressive sound experience.
Ordered as optional equipment to the audio system, it features
higher quality loudspeakers with separate tweeter/midrange and
woofer control for extra powerful, crystal-clear sound. A choice of
sound profiles and dynamic volume control ensure optimum
listening pleasure in every riding situation. Audio Pro is also a visual
highlight. A silver perforated grille without fleece provides a clear
view of the speakers with their gold dust protection dome.
Optional equipment and Original BMW Motorrad Accessories for
the new BMW R 1300 RT.
An extensive programme of optional equipment and optional
accessories is available for further customisation of the new
BMW R 1300 RT.
Thanks to a flat tank ramp, the dynamic flyline is continued in a
single line across the reduced front trim with the striking, airy light
icons as a characteristic BMW signature. The proportion of painted
trim that rises towards the front of the motorcycle emphasises the
expression of a strong, enduring long-distance runner. In addition,
the design of the luggage, topcase and seats has been integrated
more closely into the vehicle, particularly with regard to the rider's
position.
The wind and weather protection concept of the new R 1300 RT
includes adjustable side trim that is homogeneously integrated into
the design. This makes it possible to provide the rider with an
adequate supply of fresh air at all times, even in challenging
conditions such as city traffic or high outside temperatures on
country roads, and to offer highly effective protection from the
wind and weather at low temperatures when riding on the highway
or motorway. Variable wind deflectors are also available as optional
equipment ex works.
To further enhance the new R 1300 RT's weather protection,
attention has also been paid to dirt and soiling in the foot area. A
cylinder fairing, geometrically identical to the carbon-fibre cylinder
guard, now adjusts the airflow to keep the heel significantly drier
than on the previous model.
The BMW R 1300 RT's design, engine and chassis are not the only
aspects of the BMW touring icon that reflect the BMW Motorrad
development team's ambition to expand the range of possible uses
of the new BMW R 1300 RT and make it even more dynamic.
Equal importance was also placed on ergonomics with a focus on
creating a more active riding position.
Accordingly, the ergonomic triangle formed by handlebars,
footrests and seat on the new R 1300 RT have been designed to
position the rider noticeably further forward. This results in
improved feedback from the front section and therefore even
greater controllability during dynamic riding. At the same time, the
more active seating position still allows for relaxed touring and
cruising, even with a passenger.
To achieve a compromise between an active riding position and
suitability for long distances, the position of the footrests in relation
to the seat has been retained from the previous model - the hip
and knee angles were already excellent. However, the handlebar
position has changed. It is now further forward, bringing the upper
body closer to the front wheel. The handlebars are also slightly
wider and less swept back. This puts the elbows in a more active
position and gives the rider a better feel for the bike.
The height and angle of the rider's seat can be adjusted to fine-
tune the riding position. It is possible to adjust the seat height by
20 mm or to tilt the seat. Tilting the seat affects the angle of the
pelvis and can therefore contribute to the rider's comfort and
activity.
Passenger comfort has also been significantly improved. The new
cases now offer more space for the passenger’s lower legs without
compromising the volume of the cases. The passenger seat has
also been lengthened. There is now more space to change your
seating position from time to time on longer trips.
The handlebar variants available as optional equipment and as
Original BMW Motorrad Accessories as well as the adjustable
footrest system enable further customised ergonomic adjustments.
A choice of different seat heights for optimum riding comfort and
a new luggage system with electric cases and topcase. Additional
variable-volume case system for optimum customisation.
As usual, BMW Motorrad's engineers have paid particular attention
to easy access and a low seat height. For this reason, the
development of the new R 1300 RT placed particular focus on
achieving a minimum seat height of only 780 mm.
The new BMW R 1300 RT comes as standard with cases (27 litres
each) for touring and holidays. Further highlights of the new
R 1300 RT are the Vario cases, available ex works for the first time
as optional equipment for a BMW RT. The variable luggage system
allows the volume of the cases to be adjusted from 27 to 33 litres,
so that the width of the vehicle can be adapted to suit the rider's
needs, providing advantages in city traffic and in terms of fuel
consumption. Both are electrified and can be unlocked using the
central locking system. They also both feature interior lighting, and
the left-hand case includes a USB-C charging port. The two
topcases with a capacity of 39 and 54 litres respectively offer
additional storage space. The large 54-litre luggage compartment
is also electric. A special feature is the heated backrest for the
passenger.
"With significantly more power and torque than its predecessor,
the boxer engine of the new BMW R 1300 RT is the perfect
partner for sporty, dynamic touring and travelling."
Andreas Kowitz, Vehicle Concept Manager BMW R 1300 RT
Rugged boxer engine with top figures for power output and
torque along with optimised running smoothness and efficiency.
The boxer engine in the new BMW R 1300 RT has a capacity of
exactly 1 300 cc while the ratio between bore and stroke is 106.5
to 73 mm (predecessor: 102.5 to 76 mm). This increase in
capacity derives from an enlarged cylinder bore and a new
crankshaft with reduced stroke. It has an output of 107 kW
(145 hp) (predecessor: 100 kW (136 hp), still at 7 750 rpm, and
develops a maximum torque of 149 Nm at 6 500 rpm
(predecessor: 143 Nm at 6 250 rpm), making it by far the most
powerful serial production BMW boxer engine to date.
Its maximum engine speed is 9 000 rpm.
In addition to the significantly increased maximum output
compared to the predecessor model, the new BMW R 1300 RT
benefits in particular from an even more commanding torque. This
makes the new R 1300 RT more potent and dynamic than ever
before, combining enormous pulling power with impressive peak
power output. And this applies to riding fun both solo and with a
passenger, whether on sporty rides, long winding country roads or
for extended tours and trips.
It was also possible to optimise efficiency. Despite offering
significantly more power and torque, the new BMW R 1300 RT
uses no more fuel than its predecessor. The boxer engine sets
standards in terms of running smoothness, too, offering an even
more direct response to throttle commands thanks to reduced load
reversal cycles in the powertrain. Ideal alignment of the engine-
frame combination also ensures an exemplary vibration response.
The boxer engine in the new R 1300 RT still uses the well-
established air/liquid cooling system where coolant flows through
the engine elements that are subject to particular thermal stress,
such as the cylinder heads and parts of the cylinders. Other features
that are retained include the vertical-flow cylinder heads, variable oil
intake, effective piston base cooling and the DOHC valve gear with
light cam followers. In the new boxer engine, the two camshafts are
driven on each side of the cylinder by a timing chain running over
both camshafts, each from a reduction sprocket. On the right-hand
side the drive is located in front of the cylinder, while on the left-
hand side the timing chain duct is arranged behind the cylinder.
Furthermore, the engine of the new BMW R 1300 RT features the
tried-and tested knock sensor system to ensure maximum touring
suitability and the BMS-O engine management system for highly
effective carburation.
With a significantly increased output and torque, the boxer engine
compresses the fuel-air mixture in a ratio of 13.3:1 (predecessor:
12.5:1). The gain in power and torque with high efficiency is due to
recalculated timing and larger valve diameters: these now measure
44 mm instead of 40 mm on the inlet side and 35.6 mm instead of
34 mm on the outlet side.
Gearbox located below the engine for even more compact
packaging with reduced weight. New propeller shaft drive and
rear axle transmission.
The 6-speed gearbox and clutch are integrated in the engine
housing in the new BMW R 1300 RT, too. However, the
transmission is no longer located behind the engine, but underneath
it. The particular advantages of this new arrangement lie in a
reduced overall length and in improved packaging and weight
balance, since it was possible to make the transmission shafts
significantly shorter. Compared to the power unit of the
predecessor models, it was possible to achieve a weight saving of
no less than 3.9 kg on the basic engine and 6.5 kg on the
powertrain as a whole. At the same time, an even greater
concentration of mass towards the overall centre of gravity ensures
even better handling qualities. As before, power is transmitted to
the 6-speed gearbox via a wet clutch with ten lining discs and a
self-reinforcing anti-hopping mechanism. Output is via two spur
gears, one of which has an integrated judder damper.
In the interests of increased shifting precision, the gearbox now has
a sensor signal transmitter based on a new concept involving a
torsion magnet. This is reflected in a much more direct feel when
shifting gears.
The propeller shaft now has larger universal joints, while a reduced
deflection angle also reduces the non-uniformity of the rotational
transmission that is inherent in propeller shaft joints. The rear axle
transmission has a longer wheel axle stub for even easier mounting
and dismounting of the rear wheel.
BMW ShiftCam technology for superior performance and running
smoothness as well as excellent fuel consumption and emission
levels.
The boxer engine of the new BMW R 1300 RT is also equipped
with the unique BMW ShiftCam technology for varying the valve
timing and valve stroke on the intake side. At the heart of this
technology is a single-section intake shift camshaft which has a
partial-load and a full-load cam for each valve to be actuated, each
with a different cam geometry. While the partial-load cam has been
configured to ensure optimised fuel consumption and refinement,
the full-load cam is designed for optimised output.
The intake cams for the left and right-hand intake valves differ in
stroke and angular position. This phase shift means that the two
intake valves are opened to different degrees and on a time-
staggered basis. The effect of this is to create a swirl and therefore
greater agitation of the fuel-air mixture flowing into the combustion
chamber. As a result, the new BMW R 1300 RT benefits from even
more effective combustion and fuel utilisation.
Lightweight stainless steel exhaust system for optimum
performance characteristics and low weight.
The exhaust system of the new R 1300 RT, made entirely of
stainless steel, works according to the 2-in-1 principle: it is
designed for optimum output and torque in conjunction with BMW
ShiftCam technology and for very low weight. It enables a very
homogeneous power output and torque curve, thereby ensuring the
best possible ridability and performance – whether on country roads
or on extended tours. Exhaust gas purification is taken care of by a
closed-loop catalytic converter controlled by an oxygen sensor. In
this way, the new R 1300 RT complies not just with current exhaust
standards, it is excellently equipped to meet future requirements,
too.
Three riding modes are included as standard, allowing the bike to
adapt ideally to any road conditions.
In standard trim, the new R 1300 RT has three riding modes for
adaptation to individual rider preferences. The “Rain” and “Road”
riding modes allow riding characteristics to be adapted to most
road conditions. The “Eco” riding mode also makes it possible to
use the innovative BMW ShiftCam technology primarily in such a
way that the maximum range can be achieved with a single tank of
fuel. In this riding mode, a gentle throttle curve and moderate
torque limitation promote a riding style that is as economical as
possible. In order to provide visual support for a riding style geared
towards optimised fuel consumption, an efficiency indicator in the
upper status line of the TFT colour screen provides feedback when
“Eco” mode is activated. If maximum performance is required – e.g.
on gradients or when overtaking – it is simple to quickly switch to
another riding mode using the riding mode button.
Riding Modes Pro with the additional modes “Dynamic” and
“Dynamic Pro”, along with riding mode pre-selection as optional
equipment ex works. Engine drag torque control (MSR) as
standard.
On request the new R 1300 RT can also be fitted with the optional
equipment item “Riding Modes Pro” ex works: among other things,
this comprises the additional riding modes “Dynamic” and “Dynamic
Pro”. In addition, the riding mode Dynamic Pro allows adaptation to
individual needs.
With the riding mode pre-selection the rider can use the riding
mode button to make an individual selection. For this purpose, at
least two and a maximum of four riding modes can be chosen from
a list in the settings menu, and these can be selected successively
using the riding mode button. This offers a wide range of options
for configuring the new R 1300 RT to suit the rider’s personal
needs. In this way, a preferred and easily manageable number of
riding modes can be configured and selected while riding.
Engine drag torque control (MSR) is on board even in standard trim.
This can be used to safely avoid unstable riding conditions that can
occur during coasting or downshifting due to excessive brake slip
at the rear wheel. In these cases, MSR instantly opens the throttle
valves to such an extent that drag torque is equalised and the
motorcycle stabilises.
The control response depends on the riding mode. In “Eco”, “Rain”
and “Road” riding modes, MSR ensures maximum ride stability,
whereas in “Dynamic” and “Dynamic Pro” riding mode the control
system allows a more slip.
Dynamic Traction Control DTC as standard.
As standard, Dynamic Traction Control DTC uses fixed base settings
to control rear wheel slip in the “Rain”, “Road” and “Eco” riding
modes.
Automated Shift Assistant (ASA) with fully automated clutch
operation and manual or automated shifting for an enhanced
motorcycling experience as optional equipment ex works.
With the Automated Shift Assistant (ASA), BMW Motorrad offers an
innovative technical solution to make motorcycling easier and more
comfortable. True to the motto “Simplify your Ride”, automated
clutch operation and gear changes puts the riding experience even
more front and centre - without sacrificing the emotionally
important dynamic experience of the shifting process.
ASA features a clever functional design in which two
electromechanical actuators automate clutching and shifting in the
conventional 6-speed gearbox – the key difference from a
conventional shift assistant. As a result, there is no need for a clutch
lever for manual operation. Starting, stopping and manoeuvring are
effortless.
What is more, ASA enhances the actual riding experience with
quick gear-shifting processes which are appropriate to the load
and engine speed, and the resulting precise gear changes. The
rider workload is thus reduced, resulting in even greater riding
enjoyment. ASA also creates a more direct connection to the
powerful boxer engine, as the precise clutch actuation makes it
easier to control the ride via throttle grip and gear lever.
In shift mode “M”, gears can still be changed manually using the
foot lever, allowing the rider to choose the exact shift point. ASA
really comes into its own in shift mode “D”: here, perfectly timed
gear changes with smooth torque interruption deliver efficient
acceleration and greater ride stability. When shifting up, for
instance, the usual jolt of a manual gearbox is largely eliminated,
reducing the risk of helmet contact between rider and passenger.
Downshifts are also carried out with maximum smoothness,
minimising any disruption to the chassis. In order to ensure optimal
gear shifting for each driving situation, the different riding modes
are assigned specific characteristics of the automated shifting
function. And when used in conjunction with cruise control or Front
Collision Warning, the networking of functions brings the future of
motorcycling within reach.
A summary of the benefits offered by Automated Shift Assistant
(ASA):
• No need for the rider to operate the clutch.
• Dynamic and convenient gear shifts for a more engaging ride.
• Choice between manual and automated shifting.
• Automatic adaptation of shifting behaviour to rider’s style in
automated mode D.
• Prevents the engine from stalling due to poor shift timing.
"The new BMW R 1300 RT is the most dynamic BMW RT of all
time, without neglecting the typical RT virtues such as touring
ability and riding comfort. This applies in conjunction with the
newly developed semi-active Dynamic Chassis Adaption (DCA)
suspension, which is available as optional equipment. This allows
the rider to select two different riding positions to maximise the
spread between ride comfort and dynamic handling.
Ralf Mölleken, Project Manager Riding Dynamics BMW R 1300 RT
Completely newly developed chassis with sheet metal main
frame made of steel and aluminium rear frame.
The chassis of the new BMW R 1300 RT has been completely
redesigned. The centrepiece is the new sheet metal main frame
made of steel, which in addition to a significant optimisation of the
installation space for even more compact packaging also offers
higher levels of stiffness than the predecessor model. In the course
of the redesign, the rear frame was also completely reconceived. In
place of the previous tubular steel construction, the new
R 1300 RT now has an aluminium lattice tube rear frame made of
aluminium tubes and forged parts. The choice of this design with
load-bearing, slender, hexagonal extruded aluminium profile tubes
for the lower beam is based on the requirement that the new
R 1300 RT will be used primarily for long journeys. High seating
comfort for the rider and passenger, combined with a large-volume
luggage system, have been given priority. Two-stage seat height
adjustment for the rider's seat and longer, more comfortable seats
for the rider and passenger are conceptually linked to the choice of
rear frame concept. The transition to the fuel tank has been
designed to accommodate the seat height adjustment.
In combination with a drive unit that is now much more compact,
the new design of the chassis achieved a significant concentration
of mass towards the overall centre of gravity, which is reflected in
noticeable handling benefits. At the same time, the new R 1300 RT
is even more precise and stable when braking, requires noticeably
less effort to ride, and offers an even more satisfyingly precise
response of the suspension elements.
